Make a "Connection"

The New Mexico quarter features the outline of the state with a topographical texture.
With your students identify what a topographic map is and why it would be used.
Also identify the various types of maps which can be used (see
"An Island Introduction" for map vocabulary and related worksheets) and what these maps can represent.
Ask students to think of advantages and disadvantages to using a topographic map and record student answers on chart paper.
Locate examples of various types of maps of the same location, such as the nearest city, the state, or a national park.
As a class, locate the keys on each of the maps and the different markings used.
Ask the students what each map best represents and the advantages of using that type of map.

Ask the students to work in pairs or small groups to create a topographic map of a local area.
Students can choose to create a topographic map of the neighborhood around school, a nearby park, or a nearby city.
Have the students create a key and sketch their maps on large sheets of paper.
Display the student maps around the classroom.

As a related outdoor activity, create a topographic map key on the playground using masking tape and chalk.
Have the students create a key for the playground area and neighborhood, sketch the key and label areas with the chalk and masking tape.